How to Use YouTube and Other Video Sites to Promote Your Business

Many business-owners might not see a place for “videos” in their marketing budget. But at a time when viral marketing is helping little-known companies gain recognition around the world, these videos may be just what you need to attract more attention to your site.

his doesn’t mean that simply putting a video on YouTube is going to increase your traffic or sales. But a carefully planned series of videos can have a huge impact on your business in a number of ways. And since posting videos on these sites is usually free, there are no costs beyond the time and effort that you put into making the videos.

The key is to provide content that’s relevant, entertaining and useful to your potential customers. Here are some ideas to help you get started.

Make it informational. Beyond just entertainment, Internet-users are looking for information. If you can provide people with valuable advice or tips, then you just might turn those Internet-users into paying customers. Create a short video that’s related to the products or services you already provide. For example, if you run a retail clothing site, try creating videos that offer fashion tips or highlights of the latest trends in the industry. Viewers will appreciate the information and continue to rely on you as a reputable source that helps fill their needs.

Get creative. Chances are there are already several videos online that are similar to what you want to create. So, be original! Get your creative juices flowing. If you can’t come up with any new ideas, put a new spin on an old one. In order for your videos to gain attention, they’ll need to stand out

Don’t stop after just one video. The key to getting your business noticed on YouTube is to make as many videos as possible. Unless you’ve created the most original video anyone has ever seen, most viewers will forget about it instantly. Making multiple videos will give your viewers the opportunity to continue watching your content after each video is finished. A series of videos will keep them entertained and informed and will boost awareness of your business in the process.

Mention your business – but don’t beat it over their heads. While it is certainly important to include your business name (or a call-to-action) in your videos, you don’t need to make it a blatant advertisement. Instead, try putting your logo at the end of the video, or in the corner. Be sure to include a link to your website. And remember, it doesn’t need to scream “buy now!” All you need is to remind your customers who’s providing the content.

Place videos directly on your website. At the end of each video that you place on YouTube or other sites, let viewers know that they can see more videos on your site. Even if those other videos are already posted elsewhere, it’s better if they are viewed directly on your site, since it increases the chance that the viewers will click around to your other pages.

Keep it short. Internet-users don’t want to watch a whole movie about your business. Keep each clip between 1-3 minutes. If you find that you need more time to squeeze into a video, simply cut it up into parts. The key is to engage viewers just long enough to keep them entertained, informed and aware of your business before they lose interest.

Incorporate the elements of the videos into your other promotions. It might seem strange to say “as seen on YouTube” on your homepage, but the more people you can direct to your videos (even your regular customers), the more attention your website will get overall. And the more attention your site gets, the more your sales will continue to grow because of those videos.

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